Ferrari is 'lacking leadership' as Elkann confronts a tax obligation.

      "I observe that it is missing a strong and resolute spirit."

      12 September 2025 - 13:03

      Ferrari chairman John Elkann is making news this week beyond the realm of Formula 1, as former president Luca di Montezemolo delivered a scathing assessment of the current condition of the Maranello brand.

      Italian reports indicate that Elkann, 49, along with his siblings Lapo and Ginevra, has settled a long-standing tax dispute with the Italian Treasury for 183 million euros, which includes one year of community service each. This agreement pertains to allegations that the family misrepresented the tax residency of their grandmother, Marella Caracciolo, in Switzerland to evade Italian taxes following her death in 2019. Elkann, who also leads Stellantis, did not confess to any wrongdoing but entered into a plea deal pending court approval.

      This situation arises as Ferrari's lackluster 2025 season faces criticism. At the Visioni dal Mondo festival in Milan, Montezemolo pointed out a noticeable leadership vacuum within Ferrari.

      "What disappoints me today is witnessing a Ferrari without clear leadership," stated the 78-year-old, who guided the team during its dominant Schumacher era. "There is no leadership, and most importantly, I perceive a lack of a strong and determined essence. Announcements are made that often set unrealistic expectations. First, we need the results, then we can make announcements."

      He continued, "One of the lessons I learned at Ferrari, which I have always adhered to, is that when you win, you must strive even harder - and today, when you’re not winning, it’s even more crucial. You must select the right individuals.

      "In my time, I had exceptionally talented people, both first-string and second-string. (Mattia) Binotto would have been better off if he could have continued. Frequent changes lead to a loss of a vital element: stability. If you change, you need to start over."

      Montezemolo remarked that Ferrari has failed for years to even contend for a drivers’ championship until the season's last race.

      "I witnessed the wonderful scenes of the fans at Monza, yet saw a team that, despite numerous pre-race announcements, has not claimed a single victory in recent times. Even if they had, Ferrari needs to win the World Championship after all these years," he expressed.

      "I’ve endured some tough times, having lost nine or ten titles in the final moments of the last race. Ferrari hasn’t even arrived at the last race with a driver capable of winning for many years.

      "I hope for a change, particularly for the fans who remain steadfast in their support. Ferrari now carries an even greater obligation towards them."